Now, Gay and Lesbian Pride events are planned annually each June throughout North America to commemorate the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion and to continue the GLBT community struggle for equality.įrom 1986-1988, the civil rights march took place down Woodward Avenue followed by a rally at Kennedy Square. These protests came to be known as the Stonewall Rebellion, with the uprising serving as the catalyst for the modern political movement for Gay and Lesbian liberation. Word spread quickly about the confrontation and outraged crowds gathered on subsequent nights to protest the mistreatment historically inflicted on the Gay community.
The crowd inside and outside of the bar erupted into violent resistance against the officers.
On this historic night, Lesbians, Gay men and Drag Queens came together to fight back against police harassment for the first time. Fearful Gay patrons were often physically forced out of their gathering places, sometimes beaten, and arrested, with no just cause just for simply congregating. Raids on Gay establishments, however, were common at the time and were conducted regularly with little or no resistance. Liquid medications are allowed, but they may take a few extra minutes during the screening process.Ĭoolers, Hydration packs such as Camelbaks, empty water bottles are allowedĭrones or remote controlled aircraft, cars or toys.įlyers, samples, giveaways or promotional items, unless they are from a registered exhibitor. Any items that security determines may have an adverse effect on the event.īottles of water will be on sale at market prices at the festival. These items are not allowed to be brought into the festival:įirearms, knives, Tasers, clubs, pepper spray, hazardous chemicals, explosives or incendiary devices of any kind. If possible we recommend leaving backpacks at home, or if you need one, to bring a small or clear bag to speed up the security lines. These events then developed into the annual LGBT celebrations held every June.Security will check bags and wand all individuals coming into the festival. As well as sparking the idea for a week of events around Pride Day. Known as the “Mother of Pride”, it was Brenda Howard who coordinated the first LGBT Pride march. It promotes their dignity, equal rights, self-affirmation and is a way of increasing society’s awareness of the issues they face. For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people it is a way of protesting about discrimination and violence. It is a movement that celebrates sexual diversity. Over the years since the event, many gay rights organisations have been formed. The riots served as a catalyst for the rights of LGBT people, and within 6 months, 2 gay activist groups had formed in New York. In such places there should be no fears of being arrested.
The LGBT community held a series of spontaneous, often violent demonstrations to protest against the raid and calling for the establishment of places that gays and lesbians could go and be open about their sexual orientation. The riots were prompted by a raid that took place during the early morning, at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. Although attitudes and injustice still remain, we have come a long way since the riots of 1969 and by continuing in this long standing tradition we continue to raise awareness, improve the attitudes of society and encourage inclusiveness. Pride Month is so important because it marks the start of huge change within the LGBT+ community, as well as the wider societal implications. The New York Pride Parade is one of the largest and most well known parades to take place, with an estimated 500,000 people participating in it by the time it had reached its 25th anniversary. Parades are a prominent feature of Pride month, and there are many street parties, community events, poetry readings, public speaking, street festivals and educational sessions all of which are covered by mainstream media and attracting millions of participants. Why was June chosen? Because it is when the Stonewall Riots took place, way back in 1969.Īs well as being a month long celebration, Pride month is also an opportunity to peacefully protest and raise political awareness of current issues facing the community. Across the globe, various events are held during this special month as a way of recognising the influence LGBT people have had around the world. Every year, during the month of June, the LGBT community celebrates in a number of different ways.